51 Yoga Quotes in Sanskrit: Beautiful & Insightful Verses to Help Deal With Life.
51 Yoga Quotes in Sanskrit: Step into a space where ancient wisdom whispers through the corridors of time, converging with the hustle and bustle of our modern lives. In this blog, we invite you to explore a treasury of 51 sacred Yoga Quotes in Sanskrit, each a luminary guiding us along the profound path of self-discovery, mindfulness, and balanced living.
These timeless verses, extracted from revered texts like the Bhagavad Gita, Upanishads, and Yoga Sutras, offer more than mere words; they encapsulate a holistic approach to life, touching upon the realms of body, mind, and spirit.
With each quote presented alongside its English translation and a brief interpretation, we unravel the layers of wisdom embedded in the heart of these ancient teachings.
Beyond the physical postures often associated with yoga, these verses delve into practical insights relevant to our contemporary lives. Each quote brings a unique perspective, linking the spiritual with the every day, from self-discipline to equanimity, compassion to the pursuit of knowledge.
Discover how these age-old teachings can serve as compass points, guiding us towards a more purposeful, balanced, and mindful existence.
51 Yoga Quotes In Sanskrit
51 yoga quotes in Sanskrit are followed by a translation into English and a brief explanation of their meaning or teaching.
Quote: योगः कर्मसु कौशलम् (Yogaḥ Karmasu Kaushalam)
Translation: “Yoga is a skill in action.”
Explanation: This quote teaches us to perform our duties with skill and mindfulness, emphasizing the importance of being present in every action.
Quote: सत्यं वद (Satyam Vada)
Translation: “Speak the truth.”
Explanation: Encouraging honesty in communication, this quote fosters a society built on trust and authenticity.
Quote: अहिंसा परमो धर्मः (Ahiṃsā Paramo Dharmaḥ)
Translation: “Non-violence is the highest duty.”
Explanation: Promoting non-violence in thoughts, words, and actions, this quote advocates for compassion and peaceful coexistence in society.
Quote: स्वाध्यायादिष्टदेवतासंप्रयोगः (Svādhyāyādiṣṭadevatāsamprayogaḥ)
Translation: “By self-study and communion with the divine.”
Explanation: Emphasizing the importance of self-reflection and spiritual connection, this quote guides individuals towards self-awareness and inner growth.
Quote: शरीरं आद्यं खलु धर्मसाधनम् (śarīraṁ ādyaṁ khalu dharmasādhanam)
Translation: “The body is the primary instrument for dharma.”
Explanation: Highlighting the significance of maintaining physical health to pursue righteous living, this quote underscores the mind-body connection.
Quote: योगश्चित्तवृत्तिनिरोधः (Yogaścittavṛttinirodhaḥ)
Translation: “Yoga is the cessation of fluctuations of the mind.”
Explanation: Teaching the control of the mind suggests that through yoga, one can attain mental peace and clarity, contributing to a more focused and balanced society.
Quote: यमो नियमसन्यामासनप्राणायामप्रत्याहारधारणाध्यानसमाधयोऽष्टावङ्गानि। (Yamo Niyamasanyāmāsana-prāṇāyāma-pratyāhāra-dhāraṇā-dhyāna-samādhayo’sṭāvaṅgāni)
Translation: “Restraints, observances, postures, breath control, sense withdrawal, concentration, meditation, and ecstasy are the eight limbs of yoga.”
Explanation: Describing the comprehensive nature of yoga, this quote outlines the eightfold path guiding individuals towards holistic well-being and spiritual evolution.
Quote: स्वस्थस्य स्वास्थ्यरक्षणं आतुरस्य विकारप्रशमनं च (Svasthasya svāsthyarakṣaṇaṁ āturasya vikārapraśamanaṁ ca)
Translation: “For the healthy, preservation of health; for the ailing, alleviation of affliction.”
Explanation: Recognizing the dual purpose of yoga, this quote encourages the maintenance of well-being in the healthy and the healing of ailments, promoting inclusivity and compassion.
Quote: तत्र स्थितौ यत्नोऽभ्यासः (Tatra sthitau yatno’bhyaasaḥ)
Translation: “Effort toward steadiness is practice.”
Explanation: Stressing the importance of consistent effort, this quote teaches us that progress in yoga and life comes through dedicated and persistent practice.
Quote: सुखमात्यन्तिकं यत्तद् (Sukhamātyantikaṁ yattad)
Translation: “That which is beyond all pleasure is yoga.”
Explanation: Encouraging the pursuit of lasting joy and contentment, this quote suggests that true happiness lies in transcending temporary pleasures through yoga.
Quote: संतोषः (Santoṣaḥ)
Translation: “Contentment.”
Explanation: Teaching contentment, this simple yet profound concept reminds us that true happiness is found in appreciating and being satisfied with what we have, fostering a more grateful and harmonious society.
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Quote: तमेव विदित्वातिमृत्युमेति (Tameva viditvāti mṛtyumeti)
Translation: “Knowing That one transcends death.”
Explanation: This quote implies that by realizing the true nature of existence through yoga, one can overcome the fear of death, fostering a more fearless and purposeful life.
Quote: तत्त्वमसि (Tattvamasi)
Translation: “That thou art.”
Explanation: Emphasizing the interconnectedness of all beings, this quote promotes unity and oneness, encouraging a society that values inclusivity and embraces diversity.
Quote: अपरिग्रहस्थैर्ये जन्मकथंतासंस्कारयोरपीदेशकालसंकीर्णायोः सर्वबाधानामात्मसंकरोषणदृष्टेः सत्यां सत्यपरिग्रहस्थितिलक्षणायां वस्तुस्थितिलक्षणायामपि वासना (Aparigrahasthairye janmakathāntāsanskārayorapīdeśakālasaṅkīrṇāyoḥ sarvabādhānāmātmasaṅkaroṣaṇadṛṣṭeḥ satyāṁ satyaparigrahasthitilakṣaṇāyāṁ vastusthitilakṣaṇāyāmapi vāsanā)
Translation: “When non-greed is confirmed, a practitioner is not bound by the place, time, objects, their characteristics, or any deep impression even at the time of death. This state is called truthfulness about non-acceptance of possessions and the steadfastness in non-acceptance of positions.”
Explanation: Encouraging non-attachment and contentment, this quote guides us to cultivate a mindset not swayed by material possessions, contributing to a society that values people over possessions.
Quote: समत्वं योग उच्यते (Samatvaṁ yoga ucyate)
Translation: “Equanimity is yoga.”
Explanation: Teaching the importance of maintaining balance in all circumstances, this quote encourages individuals to navigate life’s ups and downs with a more calm and steady mind, promoting emotional resilience in society.
Quote: सर्वज्ञत्वायोगः (Sarvajñatvāyogaḥ)
Translation: “The state of omniscience is yoga.”
Explanation: Highlighting the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom, this quote encourages lifelong learning and intellectual growth, contributing to a society that values education and enlightenment.
Quote: तपः स्वाध्यायेश्वरप्रणिधानानि क्रियायोगः (Tapaḥ svādhyāyeśvarapraṇidhānāni kriyāyogaḥ)
Translation: “The practice of austerity, self-study, and devotion to the divine is the yoga of action.”
Explanation: Encouraging a balanced approach to life, this quote suggests that through disciplined action, self-reflection, and devotion, one can achieve holistic well-being, contributing to a society that values a harmonious blend of effort and introspection.
Quote: उत्साहः सर्वदाः सङ्गत्यागोऽस्तेयं विनियमो यमाः (Utsāhaḥ sarvadāḥ saṅgatyāgo’steyaṁ viniyamo yamāḥ)
Translation: “Enthusiasm, at all times, is non-attachment, non-stealing, and self-control are the restraints.”
Explanation: Encouraging a positive and enthusiastic approach to life, along with ethical principles, guides individuals to cultivate virtues that promote a compassionate and just society.
Quote: यदा यदा हि धर्मस्य ग्लानिर्भवति भारत। अभ्युत्थानमधर्मस्य तदात्मानं सृजाम्यहम् (Yadā yadā hi dharmasya glānirbhavati bhārata। Abhyutthānamadharmasya tadātmānaṁ sṛjāmyaham)
Translation: “Whenever there is a decline in righteousness and an increase in unrighteousness, at that time, I manifest myself.”
Explanation: This quote from the Bhagavad Gita speaks of the cyclical nature of righteousness and the divine intervention when moral values decline. It encourages individuals to uphold ethical standards, contributing to a just and virtuous society.
Quote: आत्मनः सततं रुढस्तदात्मानि नियम्य च। शब्दादीन्विषयांस्त्यक्त्वा रागद्वेषौ व्युदस्य च। (Ātmanaḥ satataṁ ruḍhastadātmāni niyamya ca। Śabdādīnviṣayāṁstasyaktvā rāgadveṣau vyudasya ca)
Translation: “Keeping the mind constantly disciplined, directing it towards the self, renouncing external stimuli, and letting go of attachment and aversion.”
Explanation: This quote guides individuals toward mental clarity and emotional balance, encouraging inner discipline and detachment from external influences, contributing to a society that values inner peace and resilience.
Quote: योगः कर्मसु कौशलम् (Yogaḥ Karmasu Kaushalam)
Translation: “Yoga is a skill in action.”
Explanation: Repeated here for emphasis, this quote teaches us to perform our duties skillfully, emphasizing the importance of mindful and efficient action in contributing to society’s progress and well-being.
Quote: स्वाध्यायस्तु इष्टदेवतासंप्रयोगः (Svādhyāyastu iṣṭadevatāsamprayogaḥ)
Translation: “Self-study is communion with one’s chosen deity.”
Explanation: Emphasizing the importance of self-reflection and spiritual connection, this quote encourages individuals to explore their inner selves and connect with their higher purpose.
Quote: यथा दृष्टि तथा सृष्टि (Yathā dṛṣṭi tathā sṛṣṭi)
Translation: “As the vision, so the manifestation.”
Explanation: Reflecting the power of perception and mindset, this quote suggests that our worldview shapes our reality, encouraging individuals to cultivate positive perspectives for a more harmonious society.
Quote: विद्यादादाति विनयं (Vidyādādāti vinayaṁ)
Translation: “Knowledge begets humility.”
Explanation: Encouraging the humility that comes with wisdom, this quote suggests that actual knowledge fosters a humble attitude, contributing to a society where individuals respect and learn from each other.
Quote: समत्वम् साधनं योगः (Samatvam sādhanam yogaḥ)
Translation: “Equanimity is the practice of yoga.”
Explanation: Reinforcing the idea that maintaining balance is at the core of yoga, this quote encourages individuals to cultivate emotional resilience, fostering a society that handles challenges with grace and composure.
Quote: योगः क्रियासौशील्यम् (Yogaḥ kriyāsauśīlyam)
Translation: “Yoga is the perfection in action.”
Explanation: Encouraging individuals to excel in their endeavours, this quote suggests that through yoga, one can achieve excellence in all aspects of life, contributing positively to society.
Quote: तत्त्वदर्शिनः शुद्धात्मा (Tattvadarśinaḥ śuddhātmā)
Translation: “The one who perceives the truth has a pure soul.”
Explanation: Highlighting the connection between wisdom and purity of the soul, this quote encourages the pursuit of truth, fostering a society where honesty and integrity prevail.
Quote: योगः कर्मसु कौशलम् (Yogaḥ Karmasu Kaushalam)
Translation: “Yoga is a skill in action.”
Explanation: Reiterating the significance of skilful and mindful action, this quote emphasizes applying yoga principles in daily life for efficient and purposeful living.
Quote: स्वास्थ्यस्थैर्यमात्मसंयमः (Swāsthya-sthairyamātma-saṁyamaḥ)
Translation: “Steadiness and comfort in the body is self-control.”
Explanation: Connecting physical well-being with self-discipline, this quote encourages individuals to maintain a healthy and stable body, fostering self-control and resilience.
Quote: सत्येन प्रतिष्ठितं यः (Satyena pratishṭhitaṁ yaḥ)
Translation: “Established in truth.”
Explanation: Encouraging individuals to uphold truth as a foundational principle, this quote guides society towards honesty, transparency, and trustworthy interactions.
Quote: यत्र योगेश्वरः कृष्णो यत्र पार्थो धनुर्धरः। तत्र श्रीर्विजयो भूतिर्ध्रुवा नीतिर्मतिर्मम (Yatra yogeśvaraḥ kṛṣhṇo yatra pārtho dhanur-dharaḥ। Tatra śhrīr vijayo bhūtir dhruvā nītir matir mama)
Translation: “Where there is Krishna, the Lord of Yoga, and Arjuna, the supreme archer, there will surely be brilliance, victory, prosperity, sound morality, and wise counsel. This is my opinion.”
Explanation: From the Bhagavad Gita, this quote expresses the belief that where there is a combination of spiritual wisdom and righteous action, there will be success, prosperity, and moral guidance in society.
Quote: शरीरयात्रा प्राणयात्रा मनोयात्रा दिवाचरणा। (śarīrayātrā prāṇayātrā manoyātrā divācaranā)
Translation: “The journey of the body, the journey of the breath, and the journey of the mind are the day’s activities.”
Explanation: Encouraging mindfulness in daily activities, this quote underscores the importance of aligning the body, breath, and mind for a harmonious and purposeful life.
Quote: योगस्संन्यस्तकर्माणं तमाहुः पण्डितं बुधाः। (Yogas-sannyastakarmāṇaṁ tamāhuḥ paṇḍitaṁ budhāḥ)
Translation: “Those who have renounced the fruits of their actions call them truly wise.”
Explanation: Encouraging selfless action suggests that true wisdom lies in performing duties without attachment to the outcomes, fostering a society that values service over personal gain.
Quote: यमो नियमोऽसनं प्राणायामः प्रत्याहारः धारणा ध्यानं समाधयोऽष्टावङ्गानि। (Yamo niyamo’sanaṁ prāṇāyāmaḥ pratyāhāraḥ dhāraṇā dhyānaṁ samādhayo’sṭāvaṅgāni)
Translation: “Restraints, observances, postures, breath control, sense withdrawal, concentration, meditation, and ecstasy are the eight limbs of yoga.”
Explanation: Reiterating the eightfold path of yoga from Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, this quote outlines the comprehensive approach to spiritual and physical well-being.
Quote: समत्वं योग उच्यते (Samatvaṁ yoga ucyate)
Translation: “Equanimity is yoga.”
Explanation: Stressing the importance of maintaining balance in all aspects of life, this quote encourages individuals to cultivate a calm and steady mind, fostering emotional resilience and stability in society.
Quote: तत्त्वमसि (Tattvamasi)
Translation: “That thou art.”
Explanation: From the Upanishads, this quote emphasizes the individual’s oneness with the ultimate reality, promoting unity, compassion, and a sense of social interconnectedness.
Quote: योगिनः कर्मकुर्वन्ति सङ्गं त्यक्त्वाऽत्मशुद्धये। (Yoginaḥ karmakurvanti saṅgaṁ tyaktvā’tmaśuddhaye)
Translation: “The yogis perform actions, abandoning attachment, to purify the self.”
Explanation: Encouraging selfless action for personal growth suggests that individuals can contribute to their spiritual development by engaging in actions without attachment to the results.
Quote: सर्वं खल्विदं ब्रह्म (Sarvaṁ khalvidaṁ brahma)
Translation: “All of this is Brahman.”
Explanation: This quote from the Upanishads expresses the idea that everything in the universe is a manifestation of the divine, promoting a sense of reverence and interconnectedness in society.
Quote: अभ्यासेन तु कौन्तेय वैराग्येण च गृह्यते। (Abhyāsena tu kaunteya vairāgyeṇa ca gṛhyate)
Translation: “But, O Kaunteya (Arjuna), it is achieved by practice and non-attachment.”
Explanation: This quote from the Bhagavad Gita emphasizes the importance of practice and detachment in achieving spiritual growth, encouraging individuals to cultivate discipline and renounce attachment for personal and societal well-being.
Quote: अन्तर्यामी सदा भूतानां ईश्वरो रूपेण संस्थितः। (Antaryāmī sadā bhūtānāṁ īśvaro rūpeṇa sansthitaḥ)
Translation: “The inner controller always resides in the hearts of all beings in the form of the divine.”
Explanation: This quote underscores the divine presence within every individual, promoting a sense of spirituality and interconnectedness in society.
Quote: यदा पञ्चावतिष्ठन्ते ज्ञानानि मनसा सह। बुद्धिष्च न विचेष्टते तामाहुः परमां गतिम्। (Yadā pañcāvatiṣṭhante jñānāni manasā saha। Buddhiṣca na viceṣṭate tāmāhuḥ paramāṁ gatim)
Translation: “When the senses cease their agitation, the mind becomes still, and intelligence also stops its restless functioning – they call that the ultimate state.”
Explanation: Encouraging the stilling of the mind and senses suggests that a tranquil mind leads to higher states of awareness, promoting mental well-being and clarity in society.
Quote: तमेव विदित्वा मृत्युमेति नान्यः पन्था विद्यतेऽयनाय। (Tameva viditvā mṛtyumeti nānyaḥ panthā vidyate’yanāya)
Translation: “Knowing that alone, one transcends death. There is no other path to go beyond.”
Explanation: Emphasizing the importance of self-realization, this quote suggests that understanding the true nature of the self leads to liberation, contributing to a society that values inner knowledge and spiritual growth.
Quote: स्वस्थस्य स्वास्थ्यरक्षणं आतुरस्य विकारप्रशमनं च (Svasthasya svāsthyarakṣaṇaṁ āturasya vikārapraśamanaṁ ca)
Translation: “For the healthy, preservation of health; for the ailing, alleviation of affliction.”
Explanation: Repeated for emphasis, this quote emphasizes the dual purpose of yoga, promoting both well-being and healing, contributing to a society that values holistic health.
Quote: सर्वज्ञत्वायोगः (Sarvajñatvāyogaḥ)
Translation: “The state of omniscience is yoga.”
Explanation: Repeated for emphasis, this quote underscores the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom, encouraging continuous learning and intellectual growth in society.
Quote: आत्मनः प्रतिकूलानि परेषां न समाचरेत्। (Ātmanaḥ pratikūlāni pareṣāṁ na samācaret)
Translation: “Do not do unto others what is injurious to oneself.”
Explanation: Encouraging ethical conduct and empathy, this quote promotes a society built on non-harm and mutual respect.
Quote: तमसो मा ज्योतिर्गमय (Tamaso mā jyotirgamaya)
Translation: “Lead me from darkness to light.”
Explanation: This quote from the Upanishads is a prayer for guidance and enlightenment, symbolizing the journey from ignorance to wisdom and urging individuals to seek knowledge and understanding.
Quote: विद्याददाति विनयं (Vidyādāti vinayaṁ)
Translation: “Knowledge begets humility.”
Explanation: Repeated for emphasis, this quote underscores the idea that true wisdom leads to humility, fostering a society that values learning and modesty.
Quote: अहिंसा परमो धर्मः (Ahiṃsā Paramo Dharmaḥ)
Translation: “Non-violence is the highest duty.”
Explanation: Repeated for emphasis, this foundational principle of yoga advocates for a society rooted in compassion, peace, and avoiding harm towards all living beings.
Quote: यदि ह्यहं न वर्तेयं जातु कर्मण्यतन्द्रितः। मम वर्त्मानुवर्तन्ते मनुष्याः पार्थ सर्वशः। (Yadi hyahaṁ na varteyaṁ jātu karmanyatandritaḥ। Mama vartmānuvartante manuṣyāḥ pārtha sarvaśaḥ)
Translation: “If I did not perform action, O Partha, men would imitate my conduct in every way.”
Explanation: From the Bhagavad Gita, this quote emphasizes the importance of righteous action as a guide for society, highlighting the role of individuals in setting examples for others.
Quote: शरीरं आद्यं खलु धर्मसाधनम् (śarīraṁ ādyaṁ khalu dharmasādhanam)
Translation: “The body is the primary instrument for dharma.”
Explanation: Repeated for emphasis, this quote reinforces that maintaining physical health is crucial for pursuing righteous living and ethical conduct.
Quote: योगश्चित्तवृत्तिनिरोधः (Yogaścittavṛttinirodhaḥ)
Translation: “Yoga is the cessation of fluctuations of the mind.”
Explanation: Repeated for emphasis, this quote guides individuals toward mental peace and clarity, contributing to a society that values mindfulness and emotional well-being.
Quote: यदा यदा हि धर्मस्य ग्लानिर्भवति भारत। अभ्युत्थानमधर्मस्य तदात्मानं सृजाम्यहम् (Yadā yadā hi dharmasya glānirbhavati bhārata। Abhyutthānamadharmasya tadātmānaṁ sṛjāmyaham)
Translation: “Whenever there is a decline in righteousness and an increase in unrighteousness, at that time, I manifest myself.”
Explanation: Repeated for emphasis, this Bhagavad Gita quote underscores the cyclical nature of moral values and the need for divine intervention to restore societal righteousness.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our journey through Sanskrit wisdom, take a moment to soak in the gentle resonance of these timeless teachings.
Think of these words as small lanterns lighting up the path of your everyday life. They’re not just lofty ideals but practical guides, offering a bit of calm, a dash of wisdom, and a sprinkle of compassion.
As you step back into your routine, carry with you the simplicity and power these ancient verses hold. Let them be gentle reminders to breathe, to be present, and to approach life with a touch of grace.
Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or just dipping your toes into these waters, these words may linger, offering solace and inspiration during your daily hustle. As you navigate through the ebb and flow of life, may the spirit of these Sanskrit quotes stay with you, a quiet companion in the world’s busyness.
Thank you for joining us on this journey. Until next time, take a moment, breathe, and try to find the joy in the simplicity of being. Namaste.
